What are the side-effects of radiation therapy?
The side effects of radiation therapy depend on the area of the body that is exposed to the radiation, as well as the dose given. There are two common side effects among most patients: fatigue and skin irritation. The fatigue usually begins after several weeks of treatment and may continue for 2 to 3 months afterward. Skin irritation occurs on the area of the body being treated, whether the radiation is given superficially or deeply into the body, and depends on the dose of radiation given. The skin becomes red, dry, and itchy. Occasionally the skin becomes blistered. The radiation oncologist provides the patient with instructions for cleaning the skin and treating the irritation when this occurs. A number of other side effects are possible and depend on where the radiation is given. Hair loss may occur in the field of radiation. If radiation is not being given to the head, however, hair loss from the scalp does not occur. If the treatment is to the mouth, throat, or neck, side effects
